Monday June 3rd, 2013 at around 6:15pm the driver of a Nissan Xterra lost control striking Jamal's tan Chevy Blazer. The car overturned several times before it went airborne, soaring over the guardrail to the empty train tracks 30 feet below. Jamal Strayhorn Sr. and his 15 year old son Jamal Jr. were inside. Fortunately, the car crashed onto the track wheels down and both were wearing seat belts. 911 calls flooded the phone lines till ambulance and fire trucks flooded the scene. Jamal Sr. and Jamal Jr. were rushed immediately to separate hospitals to be treated. For the full report click the link--http://www.wavy.com/dpp/news/local_news/va_beach/911-calls-on-i-264-crash-released. The following day was Jamal Jr.'s birthday. He's newly 16. By the grace of God they are both in stable condition. We are thankful that they will get to see other birthdays, graduations, as well as other life milestones. However, both have a long road of recovery ahead.

Jamal Sr. is an employed electrician and a single parent of two children in Virginia Beach Alexus, and Jamal Jr. He has two younger ones Juliana and Justin who currently live in Florida with their mother. He makes visits to see them whenever he can. Jamal Jr. is scheduled to start his sophomore year at Green Run high school in the fall. He runs track and plays trumpet in his school's band. Alexus too is a great athlete. She is an accomplished basketball player, a starting member of her high school's basketball team. Jamal Sr. works hard to create opportunities for his children to develop their life passions and talents.

Currently Jamal Sr. and Jamal Jr.’s energy is solely on their recovery. Jamal Sr. has sustained significant injuries that will require several months of rest and rehabilitation before he can get back to work. Paychecks for the light bill or rent won't be coming in for quite awhile. However, he still needs to support his children and maintain his household. But how?

This is where you, a community of caring and supportive people, come in. The family is thankful for all who have prayed and sent their well wishes. We all know someone who's been in need whether that is a friend, a family member, or a stranger. And what did you do? You extended your hand. We ask that you do the same in this situation for Jamal Sr and his son. With your help, the pair can focus less on the stresses tomorrow and focus more on the process of recovering. Any donation amount will be more than welcome. Belated happy birthdays to Jamal Jr., words of encouragement and support are welcome as well. We really would and do appreciate it. All donations will go straight to the family and it is not tax deductable. Thank you so much for opening your hearts and have a blessed day!